Islanders looking for more information about the implementation of the Harmonized Sales Tax will have an opportunity to ask their questions over the next few months, said Minister of Finance, Energy and Municipal Affairs, Wes Sheridan.

“We are at a significant stage in the process,” said Minister Sheridan. “Right now we are close to finalizing the Memorandum of Agreement with the federal government. Once the MOA is signed, we will commence official discussions on content specifics, and we want to make sure that Islanders are well informed and have an opportunity to provide input. ”

This Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) lays the framework for the Canada-PEI Comprehensive Integrated Tax Co-ordination Agreement (CITCA). This agreement will detail the conditions of implementing the HST in Prince Edward Island. It will include how we will transition from a dual GST/PST tax system to an integrated HST. This work will happen over the next few months. To ensure that all Islanders are well informed and have an opportunity to ask questions, the Minister will be meeting with business groups, industry associations and the community as a whole.

The meetings with Island businesses will be held in a two-stage consultation format. At these business meetings, the Minister will host information sessions, and attendees will be asked to prepare for the second stage of the consultation. This second stage will consist of follow-up, one-on-one meetings between subject matter experts from the Department of Finance, Energy and Municipal Affairs and industry groups.

There will also be focused meetings for members of the community. Minister Sheridan and subject matter experts from the department will host these meetings. There will be a full explanation of the process, including a review of the proposed components of a rebate program, and an opportunity for individuals to ask questions and provide input.

“I strongly believe that the HST will be good for the Island’s economy and am willing to answer questions Islanders may have regarding this new policy,” said Minister Sheridan.

Over the next two weeks, the schedule of meetings will be published with contact information.

For more information on the HST on Prince Edward Island please review the background information on our website at www.gov.pe.ca/hst.